Dog Breeds - Shiba Inu

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The warmth and affection a breed shows towards family members and familiar faces can vary widely. Some dog breeds are known for their selective attachment showing devotion primarily to their owner and remaining distant or indifferent to others.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
A breed's tolerance and patience with children, as well as its overall suitability for family life, can greatly vary. Even with breeds known for their gentle demeanor and forgiving nature with kids' antics, supervision is crucial when dogs are in the company of young children or children not accustomed to interacting with dogs. Safety and positive experiences come from careful oversight ensuring that interactions are respectful and gentle on both sides.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The inherent sociability of a dog breed towards other canines can differ significantly. While introductions and interactions with other dogs should always be conducted under watchful supervision certain breeds exhibit a natural predisposition for camaraderie with their peers. These dogs may find it easier to integrate into a multi-dog household or engage positively with other dogs during walks and in dog parks.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur a breed sheds can range widely with some dogs leaving little to no hair in their wake while others leave a noticeable trail of fluff behind them. Breeds that are heavy shedders usually demand a more hands-on grooming routine involving regular brushing to manage their loose hair and maintain a healthy coat. For individuals with allergies these prolific shedders might pose a greater risk of triggering allergic reactions.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming needs of a dog breed can span a broad spectrum from those requiring minimal maintenance to those necessitating frequent professional attention. Some breeds do well with infrequent baths and only occasional brushing while others may need regular bathing daily brushing, and professional trimming to keep their coats in good condition and prevent matting.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool can vary significantly some dogs are known for their dry manners, while others have a reputation for being quite slobbery. For those who prefer a tidier pet experience choosing a breed with low drool potential is likely a better fit as some dogs can indeed leave generous amounts of drool akin to ropes of slobber on your skin, clothes and furniture. It's a factor worth considering if you place a high value on cleanliness and want to minimize the need for constant wiping and cleaning after your four-legged companion.
COAT TYPE +
Double
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The degree to which a dog breed is likely to embrace strangers can diverge considerably from one breed to another. Certain breeds may inherently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people regardless of the setting staying alert and watchful in the presence of newcomers.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The playfulness of a dog breed can retain its puppy-like zeal well into adulthood depending on the breed's characteristics. There are breeds that maintain a high level of enthusiasm for games like tug-of-war or fetch throughout their lives eager to engage in active play at any moment.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
A breed's instinct to alert you about the presence of strangers can range from subdued to highly vigilant. Some breeds are naturally more inclined to notify you of anything they perceive as a potential threat, which could include anything from the mailman to a squirrel scampering outside. Such breeds usually possess a strong protective streak or a heightened sense of territory.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
A breed's adaptability to change encompasses its resilience in the face of alterations to living conditions, noise levels, weather, routines and other everyday variables. Some breeds are known for their go-with-the-flow nature, adjusting with relative ease to new situations and environments. These dogs typically cope well with a variety of life's ups and downs, making them suitable for families that might move frequently or have unpredictable schedules.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training a dog and its eagerness to learn new things are significantly influenced by the breed's characteristics although individual personality can also play a role. Some breeds are renowned for their desire to please their owners and their quickness in picking up new commands and skills. These dogs often excel in obedience training and are great candidates for advanced learning and dog sports.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation requirements of a dog breed can greatly inform your lifestyle and daily routine. High-energy breeds typically demand significant amounts of physical activity every day. These dogs thrive on engaging in rigorous exercise like running, hiking or playing fetch. They may also enjoy and benefit from dog sports such as agility flyball or dock diving
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The vocalization habits of dog breeds can vary widely some are quite talkative with frequent barking or howling while others are naturally more silent. Some breeds such as Beagles and Siberian Huskies are known for their proclivity to express themselves vocally Beagles with their baying and Huskies with their characteristic howling.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The level of mental engagement necessary to maintain a breed's joy and wellness cannot be overstated. Dogs bred for specific tasks thrive on tasks that challenge their decision-making and problem-solving skills, as well as their ability to focus. Deprived of such intellectual stimulation these canines are likely to take the initiative devising activities to occupy themselves often with outcomes that might not align with your preferences.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The warmth and affection a breed shows towards family members and familiar faces can vary widely. Some dog breeds are known for their selective attachment showing devotion primarily to their owner and remaining distant or indifferent to others.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

A breed's tolerance and patience with children, as well as its overall suitability for family life, can greatly vary. Even with breeds known for their gentle demeanor and forgiving nature with kids' antics, supervision is crucial when dogs are in the company of young children or children not accustomed to interacting with dogs. Safety and positive experiences come from careful oversight ensuring that interactions are respectful and gentle on both sides.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The inherent sociability of a dog breed towards other canines can differ significantly. While introductions and interactions with other dogs should always be conducted under watchful supervision certain breeds exhibit a natural predisposition for camaraderie with their peers. These dogs may find it easier to integrate into a multi-dog household or engage positively with other dogs during walks and in dog parks.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur a breed sheds can range widely with some dogs leaving little to no hair in their wake while others leave a noticeable trail of fluff behind them. Breeds that are heavy shedders usually demand a more hands-on grooming routine involving regular brushing to manage their loose hair and maintain a healthy coat. For individuals with allergies these prolific shedders might pose a greater risk of triggering allergic reactions.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming needs of a dog breed can span a broad spectrum from those requiring minimal maintenance to those necessitating frequent professional attention. Some breeds do well with infrequent baths and only occasional brushing while others may need regular bathing daily brushing, and professional trimming to keep their coats in good condition and prevent matting.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency of a breed to drool can vary significantly some dogs are known for their dry manners, while others have a reputation for being quite slobbery. For those who prefer a tidier pet experience choosing a breed with low drool potential is likely a better fit as some dogs can indeed leave generous amounts of drool akin to ropes of slobber on your skin, clothes and furniture. It's a factor worth considering if you place a high value on cleanliness and want to minimize the need for constant wiping and cleaning after your four-legged companion.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The degree to which a dog breed is likely to embrace strangers can diverge considerably from one breed to another. Certain breeds may inherently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people regardless of the setting staying alert and watchful in the presence of newcomers.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The playfulness of a dog breed can retain its puppy-like zeal well into adulthood depending on the breed's characteristics. There are breeds that maintain a high level of enthusiasm for games like tug-of-war or fetch throughout their lives eager to engage in active play at any moment.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

A breed's instinct to alert you about the presence of strangers can range from subdued to highly vigilant. Some breeds are naturally more inclined to notify you of anything they perceive as a potential threat, which could include anything from the mailman to a squirrel scampering outside. Such breeds usually possess a strong protective streak or a heightened sense of territory.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

A breed's adaptability to change encompasses its resilience in the face of alterations to living conditions, noise levels, weather, routines and other everyday variables. Some breeds are known for their go-with-the-flow nature, adjusting with relative ease to new situations and environments. These dogs typically cope well with a variety of life's ups and downs, making them suitable for families that might move frequently or have unpredictable schedules.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training a dog and its eagerness to learn new things are significantly influenced by the breed's characteristics although individual personality can also play a role. Some breeds are renowned for their desire to please their owners and their quickness in picking up new commands and skills. These dogs often excel in obedience training and are great candidates for advanced learning and dog sports.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental stimulation requirements of a dog breed can greatly inform your lifestyle and daily routine. High-energy breeds typically demand significant amounts of physical activity every day. These dogs thrive on engaging in rigorous exercise like running, hiking or playing fetch. They may also enjoy and benefit from dog sports such as agility flyball or dock diving

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Medium

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The level of mental engagement necessary to maintain a breed's joy and wellness cannot be overstated. Dogs bred for specific tasks thrive on tasks that challenge their decision-making and problem-solving skills, as well as their ability to focus. Deprived of such intellectual stimulation these canines are likely to take the initiative devising activities to occupy themselves often with outcomes that might not align with your preferences.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black & Tan	018
Cream	076
Red	140
Sesame	541

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
White Markings	014

About The Breed

The diminutive yet brawny Shiba Inu hails from Japan with a storied past as a hunting breed. Currently reigning as the premiere pet in Japan this energetic and affable Shiba wins hearts with ease. Adaptable by nature the Shiba Inu is just as comfortable living in urban environments as it is in rural settings. Introduced to the American pet scene about 60 years ago, the Shiba Inu's appeal is swiftly expanding in Western countries and continues to dominate as a favorite in its native land. Their coat color variations, including red, red sesame or black and tan, complemented by pristine white markings and an attentive expression alongside their effortless walk, lend them a foxlike appearance. These solid powerfully built canines carry a sense of assurance that’s as unmistakable as their build.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A SHIBA INU

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Shiba Inu: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Allergies top the list of common health troubles in Shibas applicable to many dog breeds and humans alike. In our canine friends allergies are often evidenced by skin troubles and itching. While there is no definitive test for potential breeding dogs for allergies it is generally advocated that dogs with active allergy symptoms are not bred. Identifying the allergen can be challenging however, many dogs with allergies will live a normal life using products that address their symptoms as is the case with people. Typically allergies don't make themselves known in dogs until six months of age. Dedicated breeders routinely monitor for health issues such as hip dysplasia, eye conditions and patella luxation in their breeding stock. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Patella Evaluation Hip Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	Shiba Inus are prolific shedders, to say the least. There's a common notion that they shed twice a year, though some owners playfully say that it feels like a continuous six-month stretch. Non-"long coat" Shibas are low-maintenance since their fur doesn't mat allowing for infrequent brushings without causing any discomfort. Nevertheless grooming them during their intense shedding seasons can effectively minimize the hair accumulation in your home. A powerful blow-dryer or a shop vacuum used in reverse can work wonders in removing loose fur and detecting any fleas while keeping them clean and free from dandruff. It's usually an enjoyable process for the Shibas as it avoids scraping or pulling their fur just be wary of excess heat. Moreover, Shibas are commonly averse to getting their nails trimmed introducing them to it early in their lives is beneficial but if it becomes a struggle it's better to rely on a professional groomer.

Exercise

	Shiba Inus possess a robust amount of energy and delight in their strolls. While they don't need intense daily workouts to prevent climbing walls out of restlessness a Shiba does require a committed owner who will engage them in regular physical activity, especially when an open yard for self-exercise isn’t an option. Mature Shibas tend not to be overly destructive when left alone yet certain individuals might experience separation anxiety and benefit from learning to be calm in a crate even when owners are present and through the night safeguarding the integrity of the home.

Training

	A cardinal piece of wisdom for Shiba Inu owners is this: never allow a Shiba off its leash outside a secured area, as they're innately prone to wander. Extensive obedience training won't alter this trait. To release a Shiba or indeed any dog from the leash is to risk their safety. It only takes one unintentional opening of a door or gate or one momentary lapse in attention for a Shiba to potentially vanish. In more encouraging news Shibas generally exhibit a strong predisposition towards cleanliness from a young age. By 4 weeks, a Shiba pup seeks to avoid soiling near its rest area and by the 5-week mark they're often holding on throughout the night waiting for an outdoor opportunity. Achieving complete control over their bladder functions though partly depends on how readily they can get outside and how vigilant the owner is in training.

Nutrition

	It's essential that your Shiba Inu is fed a high-grade dog food that's either commercially available or prepared at home with the go ahead from your vet. The diet should align with their developmental phase: puppyhood, adulthood or their senior years. Shibas can vary in their food preferences with some being quite selective and others less discriminating. Be vigilant of their caloric consumption to prevent obesity ensuring you can feel their ribs and spine but they're not visibly underweight. Treats are invaluable for training purposes but should be dispensed judiciously to avoid weight issues. Make sure to recognize which human foods are safe for canine consumption. Should you have any concerns about your Shiba's diet or weight your vet is the best source for advice. Fresh water should consistently be on hand.

Historiography

The inaugural Shiba Inu known to have set paw in the United States was brought over by a military family in the year 1954. This breed however, is steeped in history, tracing its origins back to 300 B.C. in Japan. The moniker 'Shiba' originates from the breed's past as an adept hunting companion amidst the dense wilderness of Japan's mountains, denoting 'brushwood' (a nod both to the terrain and their distinctive reddish hue) with 'Inu' translating to 'dog'. Post World War II, the breed's numbers dwindled perilously close to extinction yet it persevered through the adversities of wartime Japan to emerge as the most favored pet in the nation. Over the past five decades the Shiba Inu's charm has seen a steady ascent in popularity within the United States.